Tough seasonal conditions have impacted cherry crops in the Southern Forests region of Western Australia.
Growers are facing a devastating blow to their cherry season, with hot, dry, and windy weather during summer, compounded by an unusually warm winter with minimal frosts, leading to significantly reduced yields.
This year, local cherries are unlikely to be widely available, with some orchards in Manjimup experiencing crop losses exceeding 90%. The financial toll has been severe, with significant losses and a reduction in seasonal jobs for the region's cherry farmers.
The journey from bud to cherry begins as early as January of the previous season when buds are initiated. However, this year's weather conditions have disrupted the delicate process, with unseasonably warm and dry summer temperatures and a lack of the required winter chill during flowering severely impacting fruit sets.
"Cherries are a high-risk, high-reward crop," explains Arthur Wilson, Chair of the Southern Forests Food Council. "While farmers are accustomed to some variability, this season's challenges have been unprecedented."
Environmental conditions can significantly impact sensitive cherry crops. Summer rains can cause fruit splitting, hailstorms can damage blossoms, and warm winters, like this year's, can prevent adequate fruit development. The effects of the unprecedentedly warm seasons are being felt across the Southern Forests' diverse agricultural landscape:
Truffle yields were lower, with quality concerns also emerging. Avocados are ripening earlier than usual, with coloring seen months ahead of the typical March/April timeline. Apple and pear yields are anticipated to be below average, though the full extent of the impact is still unfolding.
Despite these challenges, cherry growers are continuing to invest in the future. New cherry plantations are being established in Manjimup and other regions, aiming to stabilize local supply and reduce reliance on cherries imported from interstate. "Farmers are resilient and innovative," says Wilson. "They're constantly adapting and investing in innovative solutions to better prepare for a changing climate."
The Southern Forests Food Council (SFFC) is taking proactive measures to support growers as they navigate these challenges and remains committed to helping its members build resilience and adopt sustainable practices. Key initiatives include:
- Representing producers through the South West WA Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub.
- Assisting farmers in securing grants to improve water management and climate resilience.
- Planning a TV production to showcase the resilience and innovation of the region's producers.
- Developing the region's inaugural carbon strategy to ensure sustainable farming into the future.
"It's an incredibly challenging time for our producers, but we are committed to working alongside them, promoting sustainability, and championing their efforts in the face of adversity," Wilson adds. "We encourage shoppers to help support local farmers wherever possible when making food choices too."
For more information:
Southern Forests Food Council
Tel: +61 (0)8 9772 4180
Email: [email protected]
www.southernforestsfood.com